CUNY City College of New York Army ROTC

06/03/2026

05/22/2026

Today’s highlight is Cadet Marina Salamanova, a graduating cadet in the CUNY Empire Battalion ROTC program and prior Army National Guard Soldier who served as a Culinary Specialist (92G). Graduating with a degree in Biochemistry, Cadet Salamanova will proudly commission as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army Logistics Branch this spring.
Throughout her ROTC journey, she developed leadership, resilience, and discipline while preparing for the next chapter of military service. A quote she has carried with her since high school, shared by her history teacher, continues to guide her today: “Never quit.”

05/21/2026

Today, we highlight Cadet Ahmed Elwadany.

Originally from Harlem, NY, Ahmed spent most of his teenage years there before continuing his academic journey at York College, where he is completing his master’s degree in Aviation Management.

Interestingly, his ROTC journey began unexpectedly while searching for an elective course related to his degree. After coming across a Military Science class, he decided to give it a chance. What started as curiosity quickly became something much deeper. Through ROTC, he found purpose in the uniform, the teamwork, the friendships, and the responsibility that comes with serving others.

Throughout his time in ROTC, Ahmed learned the importance of discipline and remaining steady under pressure. Balancing ROTC, academics, and work responsibilities helped shape his perspective on leadership and personal growth while teaching him the value of consistency and responsibility.

Upon commissioning, Ahmed will serve as an Active Duty Adjutant General officer detailed Infantry. He hopes to continue developing as a leader while serving a purpose greater than himself and contributing meaningfully to the soldiers and communities he will lead.

Outside of ROTC and academics, Ahmed enjoys playing soccer, watching anime, and playing chess. He enjoys activities that keep him competitive, engaged, and allow him to spend time with friends outside of his daily responsibilities.

05/20/2026

Today, we highlight CDT Gomes got into tech by fixing computers and electronics growing up, which led him into cybersecurity and networking. He is currently pursuing his Master’s in Cybersecurity at CCNY while preparing to commission as an Active Duty Signal Officer. Long term, he plans to combine military leadership with cyber operations and eventually pursue a doctorate in AI.

05/19/2026

Today, we highlight CDT Arinze Mbagwu commissions into Military Intelligence with the New York Army National Guard on June 3, 2026.
Currently serves with the 442d Military Police Co. in Farmingdale, NY.
Teaches music to 11th and 12th graders in the Bronx.
Walks at Queens College on 28 May for his Master of Science in Music Education.
Biafran-American, bilingual in Igbo, and a Roman Catholic.
Soon adds ‘Dad’ to the list.

05/18/2026

⁨📷⁩ ⁨This week, CUNY Empire BN is highlighting the cadets who will be commissioning in Spring 2026.

Meet Cadet Jules. Originally from Haiti, he moved to the United States 10 years ago in pursuit of greater opportunities. He is currently pursuing a degree in Psychology at Brooklyn College while preparing to commission as a Logistics Officer in the New York Army National Guard.

Prior to joining ROTC, Cadet Jules served on active duty in the United States Army and was stationed at Fort Hood, Texas. His experience as an enlisted Soldier laid the foundation for his leadership, discipline, and commitment to service.

Through the ROTC program, he has continued to develop as a leader, building on his prior service while gaining the knowledge and skills necessary to lead at the officer level. His journey reflects resilience, growth, and a strong dedication to both his personal and professional development.

Cadet Jules is driven by a desire to lead from the front, mentor soldiers, and contribute to mission readiness. As he transitions from enlisted service to commissioning, he brings valuable experience and perspective that will strengthen the force.

Outside of ROTC, he enjoys staying active, working on personal development, and spending time with family and friends.

Stay tuned to see more of our commissioning cadets as graduation approaches.⁩

05/17/2026

Learning Leadership Through History and Service 🇺🇸
This semester, commissioning cadets of the CCNY ROTC had the opportunity to participate in a staff ride to the United States Army Corps of Engineers.
This experience provided cadets with valuable insight into the critical role the Corps of Engineers plays in supporting military operations, infrastructure, and national development. Through professional discussion and firsthand exposure, cadets gained a deeper understanding of Army leadership, planning, and engineering support capabilities.
Staff rides like this connect classroom learning to real-world Army missions and help develop future leaders through education and experience.
Learn the Mission. Understand the Legacy. Lead the Future.
🇺🇸

05/16/2026

An Evening of Camaraderie and Celebration ✨🇺🇸
Cadets of the CCNY ROTC came together for the annual ROTC Gala — a night dedicated to celebrating accomplishments, strengthening bonds, and reflecting on a semester of hard work and growth.
The evening brought together cadets, cadre, and guests to recognize the dedication, leadership, and commitment that define our program. From shared memories to new milestones, the gala served as a reminder that leadership is built not only through training, but also through camaraderie and community.
As the semester comes to a close, we celebrate all that has been accomplished and look forward to what lies ahead.
Leadership. Friendship. Tradition.
✨

05/06/2026

Ending the Semester Strong 🇺🇸
As final exams draw closer, cadets of the CCNY ROTC successfully completed their final 12-mile ruck march of the semester.
This challenging event tested cadets’ endurance, resilience, mental toughness, and teamwork — reinforcing the importance of perseverance both in the classroom and in the field.
Through every mile, cadets demonstrated discipline, commitment, and the determination required of future Army officers.
One Final Push. One Team. One Mission.

04/21/2026

A Transformational Experience 🇺🇸
This unforgettable trip was made possible thanks to CPT Steven Oh, whose support provided cadets from the CCNY ROTC and St. John’s ROTC with an incredible opportunity in Washington, D.C..
Cadets not only toured the The Pentagon, but also explored Capitol Hill, gaining a deeper understanding of military leadership and government operations.
The experience was further enriched by distinguished leaders including Major General John Dreska and Brigadier General Scott Wilkinson. Cadets also engaged with Major Reynolds and Major Black, and had the opportunity to interact with Congressional staffers who shared their leadership insights and real-world experiences, gaining a broader understanding of leadership at the strategic level.
This trip connected cadets to the strategic level of leadership and inspired them to continue striving for excellence.
Learn from Leaders. Lead the Future.